PROBLEM SOLVER: Bridgewater reader wonders is she committed faux pas

Wednesday

Jan 27, 2010 at 12:01 AMJan 27, 2010 at 7:58 PM

May have?

Dear Problem Solver: When talking with a reader about another offer I made, I was told about someone who sews a lot and whose machine had just stopped working. I decided to talk to her and I subsequently gave her a sewing machine I’d offered. I’d previously spoken with two readers who had responded to that offer. I’ve called them to let them know that the machine has been given away. Though disappointed, they were glad to hear from me. They said they’d never received an update from another reader before. May I have committed a faux pas?

— S.D., Bridgewater

Dear S.D.: No, you didn’t. Though it would have been nice if one of the reader respondents had been chosen to receive the sewing machine, it was yours to give to whomever you wished. For reasons of your own, you decided upon the person to whom the machine was given. An act of kindness nonetheless. And a courtesy as well to let the respondents know about it. Me, too. Thanks.

Name, address and phone number absolutely required both in mail to The Problem Solver, 60 Reservoir St., Ste. 506, Brockton, 02301, and e-mail to Theprosol@aol.com. Permission to share all contact information also absolutely required. All mailed letters must enclose a long white self-addressed stamped envelope. All offered items must be given away at no cost. None can be bought or sold. No phone calls accepted.

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